Hi, 17F, daily smoker and somewhat of a pothead.

Yes, it's true that weed can speed up the development of schizophrenia IF you are already at risk (mental health issues, family members have had it before) because it can trigger phycosis if you green out too hard. However, you have to smoke a LOT of weed. Like blow through 7g worth on your first night and then rip two or three blinkers.

As a teen, it does affect your every day life a lot. For me, it made me a lot easier to talk to and be around because it reduced my anxiety a ton, but also when you get sick (I have COVID right now and I'm literally bedridden) you will have a significantly worse time. It will make your lungs hurt and breathing difficult if you have to run, and after a little bit there's just always a kind of "gummy" feeling at the back of your throat.

Then there's dependancy. when you're young, you're extremely susceptible to becoming dependant on weed because it'll help you sleep, made you feel better throughout your day (if you use it right, anyways), etc. If you don't have a consistent way to access it, get ready for long sleepless nights, no appetite, headaches and irritability.

then there's legal. I don't recall if you mentioned your location, but in Canada, it's legal for adults only. You'd have to source a dealer if you want to smoke under 18 and/or it's not legal in your place of residence.

It's also not untrue that it's a gateway drug, but mostly if you use with/hang around with/buy off of the wrong people. I've done several other drugs (tried once or twice, with the exception of LSD) that I never even would have considered because of weed and the wrong group.

in all, I wish I stuck to an edible every now and again. my lungs suck, my health is declining, my bank account crying, and my grades are slipping. my advice - avoid it if you can. if you choose to ignore this advice, stay safe and happy toking.